Nitrogen helps eliminate corrosion in idle HRSGs

Situated in Gondomar, in the north area of Portugal, Tapada do Outeiro combine cycle power station produces 15-20 percent of the country’s electrical needs. The company relies on an NG 81 generator from Atlas Copco Rental to supply pure nitrogen to replace the air in the steam generator’s tubes when they are not in use, eliminating corrosion.

Carlos Carqueja, engineering manager of the company, explains the fundamental role Atlas Copco Rental’s NG 81 generator has in the operation of the plant. “Nitrogen is used to preserve the steam generators. When they are not in use, air goes into the tubes, so the steam generators can suffer corrosion. The replacement of air by high-quality nitrogen eliminates the corrosive effect on the steam generator.”

He also adds that “the rental option, allow us, at a very reasonable cost, to test the technical viability of keeping a very poor oxygen atmosphere with the nitrogen generators for long periods.

After two months, Tapada do Outeiro is very satisfied with the quality and reliability of the equipment, which has required no maintenance since it has been in operation. The company is also pleased with the technical team supporting the equipment.

 “I would not hesitate to recommend a rental solution from Atlas Copco to other plants with the same needs,” states Carqueja.